Scottish Power is One of the Energy Suppliers who will Increase Rates

By Cynthia Taylor

Thousands of homes all over the UK are about to see their energy rates increase next month. This is due to some of the popular tariffs ending. It appears that four of the Big Six energy suppliers will be increasing their rates. The four are Scottish Power, EDF Energy, E.ON and Npower.

People who have been on fixed tariffs will now have to be switched on to the standard tariffs which are more expensive than the ones that were fixed. These increases are being implemented just before the winter months begin.

It is expected that the average energy bill will increase by £280 per year. That is a large slice of money for people who will not have budgeted for it.

It has been suggested that the people who's fixed tariffs are due to end should do a shop around and see what other deals are available and if necessary switch energy suppliers this is the advice given by PCM Switch a well known energy switching company. People donít need to just wait for the higher price to kick in, they can be proactive and look for a better deal elsewhere.

According to the regulations, the energy suppliers have to give notice 30 days prior to the ending of a fixed tariff. While this is necessary, reports say that it takes about six weeks for the switch-over to a new supplier, which means that people who are not aware of the situation could get switched to the higher tariff before that do anything about it.

Consumers should be aware that as soon as they receive the notice of fixed tariff ending they should contact their supplier to find out the exact date it will end. However, people need not wait untill they receive the notification, they can contact their supplier anytime to ask when the contract will end so that they are prepared and not get locked into a higher tariff.